UMAC Brings ‘The Cabinet of Curiosities & Oddities’ to Douglas County Fairgrounds October 23-24

ROSEBURG, Ore. - A mysterious collection of sirens, porcelain dolls, and unusual creatures will take the stage when Umpqua Movement Arts Collaboration presents “The Cabinet of Curiosities & Oddities” on Friday, October 23, and Saturday, October 24, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall.

The production combines dance, aerial performances, and theatrical storytelling in a dark, Victorian-inspired setting. It will be the local nonprofit’s first stage production at the fairgrounds.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with performances beginning at 7 p.m. both evenings. Tickets are $22 in advance through umacroseburg.com or $27 at the door.

All ages are welcome, although organizers advise parental discretion because of mature themes. A no-host full bar and food from Huele A Tacos Food Truck will be available.

A Collection Brought to Life

More than 30 dancers, aerialists, and other performance artists will appear in the show, which features over a dozen acts connected by a central character known as “the Collector.”

The Collector will guide audiences through a collection of sirens, porcelain dolls, mysterious creatures, and other curiosities, with each act showcasing different forms of movement arts. Organizers describe the production as an immersive story designed to transport audiences into an enchanting, otherworldly setting.

The show marks Lindsey Rivenes’ debut production as UMAC’s creative director.

“I am very grateful for the chance to work with this amazing group of creative individuals. I am truly dedicated to transporting this audience to an otherworldly setting filled with dangerous temptations,” Rivenes said.

“Our UMAC community has dedicated themselves again to bring an unforgettable show to life.”

Costumes Encouraged Both Nights

Audience members are invited to become part of the evening’s atmosphere by wearing Victorian, gothic, steampunk, macabre, or other unusual attire.

An audience costume contest will take place during intermission each night, with prizes for standout costumes.

“Whether you come as an elegant oddity, mysterious creature, or something entirely your own, we want to see what belongs inside the Cabinet,” the organization says on its website. “Prizes await our most captivating curiosities-so dress strange, dress spectacular, and give the Collector something worth noticing.”

Months of Preparation

UMAC is home to The Diva Dancers, a group of Douglas County community members who have been preparing for the production since early summer. The performances will bring together local participants and special guests.

The Diva Dancers have been organized since 2020, offering adults opportunities to participate in weekly classes and seasonal performances regardless of dance experience, age, or gender.

Previous productions have taken place at Backside Brewing Company, the Roseburg Elks Lodge, and Umpqua Community College’s Whipple Fine Arts Centerstage. This fall’s move to the fairgrounds gives the group a new venue for its latest theatrical production.

About UMAC

Umpqua Movement Arts Collaboration formally incorporated in summer 2023 as a nonprofit organization supporting movement arts and community connection.

Its charitable mission is “to cultivate an appreciation for wellness, creativity and diversity within the community.” The organization pursues that mission through dance, holistic fitness, and theatrical performance, bringing people together through movement, art, and connection.

Tickets and additional information about “The Cabinet of Curiosities & Oddities” are available at www.umacroseburg.com. Questions may be directed to UMAC board member Thomas McGregor at thomasm@umacroseburg.com.